Urology
Doctor Title: Urologist
Surgical and medical specialist treating urinary tract disorders in both sexes and male reproductive health.
What Does a Urologist Do?
Urology is the surgical specialty addressing anatomical and functional conditions of the urinary tract in both men and women, as well as the male reproductive system. Urologists perform robotic surgeries for cancers, clear obstructing kidney stones with laser lithotripsy, and manage prostate enlargement, incontinence, and male fertility.
Core Clinical Responsibilities:
- Performs rigid and flexible cystoscopies to inspect the bladder lining and urethra.
- Clears kidney and ureteral stones using laser lithotripsy (URS/RIRS) and shock wave therapy (ESWL).
- Executes robotic-assisted radical prostatectomies and nephrectomies for prostate and kidney cancers.
- Treats Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) through medical therapy, TURP, and laser enucleation (HoLEP).
- Evaluates and treats erectile dysfunction, low testosterone, and male factor infertility.
When to See a Urologist
You should consider scheduling an evaluation with a Urologist if you experience any of the following warning signs or persistent symptoms:
Visible blood in the urine (hematuria - should always be investigated)
Sudden, excruciating flank or back pain radiating to the groin (classic kidney stone symptom)
Weak urinary stream, straining to urinate, or frequent nighttime urination (nocturia)
Inability to pass urine at all (acute urinary retention - seek emergency care)
Persistent involuntary leakage of urine when coughing, laughing, or exercising (urinary incontinence)
A painless lump, firmness, or swelling in either testicle (warrants immediate examination)
Conditions & Diseases Treated
A Urologist provides specialized diagnostic workups and therapeutic management for a wide range of conditions, including:
Common Tests & Procedures Ordered
To confirm diagnoses and monitor treatment effectiveness, a Urologist frequently utilizes the following clinical tests and procedures:
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Blood Test
Read Lab Test GuideBiomarker screening for prostate tissue inflammation, BPH, and prostate cancer monitoring.
Urine Routine Examination & Culture
Read Lab Test GuideScreens for micro-hematuria, pyuria, nitrites, and identifies specific bacterial pathogens.
Non-Contrast Computed Tomography of Kidneys, Ureters, and Bladder (CT KUB)
Gold-standard imaging detecting the exact size, density, and location of urinary stones.
Flexible Cystoscopy
In-office optical scope examination of the urethra, prostate lobe coaptation, and bladder urothelium.
Serum Testosterone Panel
Read Lab Test GuideQuantifies circulating total and free testosterone in men with fatigue, low libido, and erectile issues.
Subspecialties & Advanced Fellowships
Within Urology, physicians may pursue additional fellowship training to concentrate on specialized surgical procedures or disease subsets:
Frequently Asked Questions
Make the most of your consultation with a Urologist by coming prepared:
- Arrive with a moderately full bladder, as an in-office urine sample and uroflowmetry test may be needed.
- Bring all prior CT KUB scans, renal ultrasound reports, and recent PSA lab sheets.
- Record your daily liquid consumption and urination frequency over 48 hours in a voiding diary.
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Content on this page is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for direct medical diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare provider.
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